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Students might be a little bummed their summer vacation is beginning to wind down and if they are increasingly worried about the upcoming year, mental health experts encouraged parents to include a wellness check in their preparation.

The transition to August often includes immunization appointments and sports physicals for students.

Carolyn Felty, manager of school based mental health for the nonprofit mental health care provider Canvas Health, said for parents who have a sense their child's mental health needs focus, they might want to first bring it up with their family doctor. She pointed out it is normal for kids to express some anxiety as school approaches but some symptoms should prompt a follow-up.

"Difficulties with sleeping or eating, maybe if kiddos are having aggression, avoidance, or sometimes they even complain about headaches and tummy aches," Felty outlined.

She stressed it is especially time to act if these changes are more than a parent would expect. Felty noted reaching out to the school is another good step so support staff are ready to assist. Even if your school district faces resource challenges, she pointed out they often partner with a third party to provide in-school therapy, noting Canvas works with seven different districts.

Dr. Nicole Brady, chief medical officer of student resources for UnitedHealthcare, said when such topics come up with your child, it's OK to not have all the answers, adding being present for them is a strong sign of support.

"Sometimes, just listening can go a long way," Brady advised. "It really tells your kids that it is safe to talk to you about their mental health. So, if concerns escalate, they're more likely to come back."

As for insurance coverage, Brady recommended looking out for supplemental benefits from your provider you can access for mental health, including therapists who do virtual sessions. Brady explained they often have better availability.

In the most recent Minnesota Student Survey, 45 percent of female students reported long-term mental health problems.